Wayanad Adventure Race 2025
- NthAdventure
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read
The Wayanad Adventure Race by NthAdventure showcased eco-conscious endurance racing at its finest, immersing participants in Kerala’s lush landscapes and vibrant traditions. Set amid verdant hills, sprawling plantations, and rain-soaked monsoon trails, the event brought together athletes from 10+ states, turning the race into both a thrilling sporting challenge and a rich cultural exchange — a testament to the sport’s growing reach and community spirit in India.
Participants navigated thru demanding multi-sport challenges — from trail running, mountain biking, and navigation to unique local tasks — all under unpredictable monsoon conditions. The race wasn’t just about competition; it was about connection. Through meaningful community partnerships, racers engaged deeply with Wayanad’s traditions, biodiversity, and local economy.
Bringing the Wayanad Adventure Race to life was no small feat — it took weeks of behind-the-scenes coordination, from arranging on-ground support and technical gear to managing stay, mobility, permissions, and people. When race day arrived, everything ran seamlessly, aligning with the high standards of the Global Adventure Racing community. Nestled in the lush highlands of Kerala, Wayanad welcomed racers with its cool climate, rich cultural roots, and breathtaking scenery. The region, famous for its tribal traditions, rolling tea gardens, and ancient forests, offered a course that challenged both body and mind. More than just a competition, it became a journey into raw nature and deep connection — leaving lasting memories for everyone involved.
Technical Session - Pre Event
The Wayanad Adventure Race began with a day dedicated to preparation and learning. On 12th July, athletes took part in an exclusive Adventure Racing Workshop led by Sayeesha Kirani, one of India’s most respected voices in the sport. This hands-on session covered the essentials — race formats, navigation skills, vital gear, team coordination, and endurance techniques — ensuring participants were ready for the challenges ahead.
Adding to the learning experience, Sayeesha Kirani, a seasoned outdoor navigation specialist, conducted an engaging orienteering and map-reading segment. He broke down topographic maps, compass use, and real-world navigation strategies in a clear,
approachable way.
Racers learned how to:
Pace themselves effectively through checkpoints
Make quick yet accurate route decisions
Communicate seamlessly as a team under pressure.
Designed for both newcomers and experienced racers, the workshop offered a balanced mix of skill-building and community bonding. It wasn’t just about mastering techniques — it helped foster camaraderie and mental readiness for race day. The impact was evident: 80% of participants said the session significantly boosted their confidence, while 20% expressed interest in learning more, proving the workshop’s relevance and value. As evening set in, teams completed registrations, collected their race kits, went through equipment checks, and began settling into the event atmosphere — with the excitement for what lay ahead growing by the hour.
As the evening light faded over the Wayanad hills, participants gathered at Pranavam Resort for a traditional Kerala Sadhya — an elaborate vegetarian buffet served on banana leaf. Typically reserved for grand celebrations like Onam, the feast featured over 20 authentic dishes, each prepared with care and arranged in a traditional sequence.
The rich blend of sweet, spicy, tangy, and earthy flavors offered a sensory journey through Kerala’s culinary heritage. For many participants from outside the state, it was their first taste of this iconic tradition, and the experience sparked delight, curiosity, and lively conversations. Laughter, shared stories, and the warm hospitality of the hosts transformed the evening into more than just a meal — it became a cultural celebration, weaving together people, flavors, and the spirit of Kerala.
Race Day
Race day dawned under a misty Wayanad sky on 13th July. A light drizzle set the tone for the early morning, delaying the flag-off slightly, but also allowing extra time for final safety briefings, conducted volunteers meeting, and warm-up routines. Athletes began preparing with quiet focus — checking gear, plotting routes, and exchanging last-minute strategies. Excitement and nerves mingled in the air. Before the race began, teams gathered for a quick group photo. With hydration packs secured, bikes adjusted, and maps in hand, they set off across the untamed trails of Wayanad — ready to navigate, explore, and endure.
10 KM Trail Run Winners
The 10 KM Trail Run event was a true test of mental sharpness and physical agility. Wayanad’s wild terrain demanded constant attention and quick decisions. The winners of the 10K category were:
🥇 Vignesh N.S. (1st Place) - From Tamil Nadu
🥈 Anees Zuhair (2nd Place) - From Kerala
🥉 Raghuvamsh- the youngest Orienteer From Kerala
Yet, the moment that truly stood out was one of compassion. In a beautiful gesture of sportsmanship, Vignesh chose to offer his trophy and winning prize to fellow participant Laranya, recognizing her courage and comeback. It was a heartfelt reminder of the deeper values that define adventure racing — resilience, respect, and support. Meanwhile, the 30 KM Adventure Course pushed participants to their limits — dense trails, steep climbs, and unpredictable paths demanded both strategy and strength.
30KM - Adventure Race - Solo Category
🥇 Ramkumar R - From Chennai, secured the top spot,
🥈 Ajaatha Shathru - From Bangalore
🥉 Zarbaf Sharief - From Hyderabad.
30KM - Adventure Race - Team of 2 Category
🥇 Team Ovonel first-timers from Pondicherry, dominated with focused coordination,
🥈 Team Kerala Racing Riders, another debut team, came in second,
🥉 Team Kochi Squad, with the oldest participants (aged 50+), finished proud and strong — proving once again that age is just a number when passion leads the way.
Across the finish line, participants were greeted with cheers, refreshments, and the unmistakable glow of achievement. For many first-timers, this wasn’t just a race — it was a personal milestone. They spoke of how thrilling and enjoyable the event was, with many already looking forward to future races. Post-race feedback revealed that 60% of participants found the experience exciting and engaging, while 40% described it as intense and challenging — a balance that makes adventure racing what it is.
The final day was a celebration not just of competition, but of collaboration, spirit, and shared journey. From every participant, volunteer, and crew member, it was a collective success — a reminder that these moments are built not only on trails and time, but on trust, teamwork, and tenacity.
The first-ever Wayanad Adventure Race 2025 came to life thanks to the incredible backing of Pranavam Resort & Spa, our hospitality partners, and our Bike & Race Tech Partners — Squirt Cycling Products, and Muddy Boots — who kept riders and gear race-ready. We deeply appreciate the support of the Wayanad Tourism Organization, along with our tireless volunteers and media teams who worked behind the scenes.
Most importantly, to every participant — your energy, determination, and adventurous spirit made this milestone event truly unforgettable. See you in the next edition.
Hotels & Resorts supporting this first edition:
About NthAdventure: NthAdventure is the only licensed organization in India to host Adventure Racing from Adventure Racing World Series - USA. NthAdventure’s prime focus is to grow and build Adventure Racing and Orienteering community in India. Both the Race Directors have been part of multiple Expedition Races and have been conducting workshops, training sessions, webinars, and multiple sprint races since 2016 to help Indian teams race ready at global stages
For more information about NthAdventure and upcoming races visit: https://www.nthadventure.com/
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